Irish short film ‘The Crush’, from director Michael Creagh has been announced as one of five live action short films nominated for an Academy Award.

‘The Crush’ is written and directed by Michael Creagh and produced by Damon Quinn at Purdy Pictures. The story sees an eight year old schoolboy (played by newcomer Oran Creagh) fall in love with his teacher, Miss Purdy. One day he gives her a toy ring to show his affection. But heartbreak abounds when he bumps into Miss Purdy and her boyfriend having just bought a very real engagement ring. Devastated and spurned, Ardal challenges Miss Purdy’s fiancé to a duel – to the death!

Other cast members in the independently funded short include Olga Wehrly (Rásaí na Gaillimhe), Rory Keenan (The Guard), and Neili Conroy (Kisses). DOP was Jim Creagh (Last Man Hanging) and editor was Ciara Brophy (The Widow).

‘The Crush’ will face competition from the four other nominated shorts in the category including Tanel Toom’s ‘The Confession’; Luke Matheny’s ‘God of Love’; Ivan Goldschmidt’s ‘Ne Wewe’ and ‘Wish 143’ from Ian Barnes and Samantha Waite.

Irish short films have fared well over the years in the Academy Awards. Martin McDonagh’s ‘Six Shooter’ picked up the top prize in 2006, with Steph Green’s ‘New Boy’ and Juanita Wilson’s ‘The Door’ receiving nominations in 2009 and 2010 respectively.

The 83rd Academy Awards winners will be announced on Sunday, February 27th. For a full list of nominees visit www.oscars.org